Japan’s telecom giants are racing to deploy non-terrestrial networks, with NTT Docomo pushing to commercialize high-altitude platform systems (HAPS) by 2026.
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| NTT Docomo is advancing non-terrestrial networks, targeting a 2026 launch for high-altitude platform systems (HAPS) to expand connectivity in remote areas. Image: ChicHue |
Tokyo, Japan — March 9, 2025:
Japan’s telecom industry is accelerating efforts to commercialize non-terrestrial networks, using satellites and unmanned aircraft to bridge connectivity gaps in remote regions. As competition in this sector heats up, NTT Docomo aims to deploy high-altitude platform systems (HAPS) by 2026, positioning itself as a key player in next-generation communications, reads a JN post.
These developments were a focal point at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, held from March 3-6, where NTT Docomo unveiled its HAPS technology. The company showcased a model of a solar-powered unmanned aircraft acting as a flying base station, designed to deliver mobile connectivity to mountainous, rural, and maritime regions.
At MWC, NTT Docomo also announced a successful HAPS test in Kenya, where an Airbus subsidiary’s unmanned aircraft, weighing 75 kilograms, maintained an altitude of 20 kilometers in the stratosphere for 13 days. The test confirmed stable smartphone data communication from the airborne platform.
While HAPS offer a smaller coverage area compared to SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network, their lower altitude allows for faster, high-capacity data transmission. Japan’s first deployments are expected in the Kyushu region and southern islands, where solar-powered systems can operate more efficiently.
“We have received strong interest from industries such as defense, shipping, and construction,” said Takehiro Nakamura, a senior NTT Docomo official. “HAPS will support corporate applications, remote monitoring, and critical infrastructure.”
Non-terrestrial networks are gaining momentum due to their potential to provide reliable communication in disaster-stricken areas. Speaking at MWC, SpaceX’s David Goldman highlighted the ability of these networks to connect underserved regions, particularly in emergencies.
Rakuten Group is also entering the space, planning to launch a satellite-to-smartphone service as early as 2026. The company is working with U.S. startup AST SpaceMobile, in which it has invested, to develop direct-to-device connectivity. Rakuten Chairperson Hiroshi Mikitani emphasized at MWC that ensuring telecommunications access in disaster zones is as vital as providing food and water.
Despite Japan’s push into non-terrestrial communications, U.S. and European firms lead in low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite networks. Japanese companies face hurdles in developing cost-effective satellite networks independently.
Additionally, unmanned HAPS systems remain susceptible to extreme weather, including strong winds and heavy rain, which can impact power generation and operational stability. Enhancing efficiency to extend their airborne duration is a critical challenge.
As Japan’s telecom giants accelerate their investments in non-terrestrial networks, success will hinge on overcoming these technical obstacles and forging global partnerships to remain competitive in the evolving satellite and stratospheric communications industry.